Isla de la Juventud: Cuba's Forgotten Island of History and Beauty
Lying in the Caribbean Sea, southwest of mainland Cuba, Isla de la Juventud (Isle of Youth) is the country's second-largest island and one of its most intriguing destinations. Known for its layered history, tropical landscapes, and a unique blend of isolation and vitality, the island has worn many identities—from pirate hideout to penal colony, agricultural experiment to educational utopia. Less touristy than other Cuban regions, Isla de la Juventud provides an immersive experience of island life, lush nature, and a rich history.